LCRIG was delighted to attend the official launch of the new Highways Skills Academy at Askham Bryan College on 2nd October 2026, marking an exciting milestone in efforts to address the highways sector’s skills gap.
The academy reflects LCRIG’s commitment to skills development and its work as a Community Interest Company (CIC), bringing together education, local authorities and industry to create opportunities and help develop the next generation of highways professionals.
LCRIG has supported the initiative from concept to delivery, donating the cabin, connecting the college with industry partners and promoting the opportunity across its highways community.
Keely Metcalfe, Relationship Manager at LCRIG, said:
“The Highways Skills Academy is a fantastic example of sector collaboration in action, helping address the skills gap and develop the next generation of highways professionals. We’re really proud to have played a part in bringing the academy to life and look forward to seeing it become a valuable skills hub for Yorkshire and the Humber.”
The academy has welcomed its first cohort of 10 apprentices from City of York Council, Leeds City Council and Kirklees Council, who have begun their Level 2 Highways Maintenance Operative apprenticeship. The dedicated training environment, which includes a mock road and footpath, provides learners with valuable opportunities to develop practical highways maintenance skills.
A huge thank you to Askham Bryan College, City of York Council, Leeds City Council, Kirklees Council, KS Civils and Groundworks Ltd, Instarmac Group plc and Saint-Gobain PAM UK for their support and contributions in making the academy a reality.
The launch demonstrates what can be achieved when the sector works together towards a shared goal. We look forward to continuing to champion skills initiatives that strengthen the highways workforce and create pathways into the sector.
Organisations interested in learning more about the academy or exploring opportunities to support future apprentices are encouraged to get in touch.
(Images – LCRIG)